Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Flashcards

Which of the following best describes a logical fallacy?

Answer: An error in reasoning that undermines an argument

A logical fallacy is a flaw in reasoning that makes an argument invalid or misleading, regardless of whether the conclusion happens to be true.

When evaluating a source of information, which factor is MOST important for determining its credibility?

Answer: The author's expertise and peer verification

Credibility is best determined by the author's qualifications and whether the information has been verified by other experts in the field.

What is the term for the tendency to search for information that confirms one's pre-existing beliefs while ignoring contradictory evidence?

Answer: Confirmation bias

Confirmation bias is the tendency to favor information that supports existing beliefs and to discount evidence that contradicts them.

In a deductive argument, if the premises are true and the argument is valid, the conclusion MUST be:

Answer: Certainly true

In a valid deductive argument, if all premises are true, the conclusion is guaranteed to be true — this is what distinguishes deduction from induction.

Which problem-solving step involves breaking a complex problem into smaller, more manageable parts?

Answer: Decomposition

Decomposition is the process of breaking a complex problem into smaller sub-problems that are easier to understand and solve individually.

The 'ad hominem' logical fallacy involves:

Answer: Attacking the person making an argument rather than the argument itself

Ad hominem (Latin for 'to the person') is a fallacy that attacks the character or circumstances of the person making an argument instead of addressing the argument's merits.

What does it mean to identify an 'assumption' in an argument?

Answer: To locate an unstated premise the argument depends on

An assumption is an unstated belief or premise that an argument takes for granted and relies upon, even though it is never explicitly stated.